Science

This term, our Year 7 to 9 students studied the Earth Sciences. The topics explored sustainability, and the challenges associated with environmental change and human impact, whether it be the use and management of renewable and non-renewable resources (Year 7), the process of rock formation, minerals and mining (Year 8) or the role of ecosystems in supporting life (Year 9). A highlight of the term was the independent research projects conducted by the Year 7 students and SEAL students in Years 8 and 9, some of which are now displayed in the Discovery Centre. 

Thank you to those who contributed to the book buyback

The Science textbook buyback scheme had a very positive response, and we now have class sets of textbooks to use in Years 7, 8, 9 and 10. Families who provided bank details with their textbooks should receive reimbursements by the end of the term. 

The success of the buyback means that we will not request year 7-10 students to buy a textbook until the new Victorian Curriculum for Science is implemented. However, we want to highlight that students in Years 7-9 are still required to purchase an Activity Book, which is different to the textbook. This Activity Book is used regularly throughout the year, so please try to ensure your child has this book at the beginning of 2025. Due to students writing directly into the activity book, purchasing second-hand books is not recommended. 

Calling All Female STEM Enthusiasts

I wanted to highlight an opportunity for our female students: RMIT’s Young Women in Aerospace & Defence STEM Program. With three sessions offered during the school holidays over 2025 at RMIT University, this FREE program is a perfect chance to explore future STEM pathways, in an exciting hands on program which will include:

Hands-On STEM Activities – Each program offers a unique experience where students will participate in one exciting STEM activity, such as drone construction, app design, glider building, or bot programming. Programs will wrap up with an exciting race to showcase student innovations. 

Insightful Lectures & Q&A Sessions – Hear from STEM professionals and discover our state-of-the-art engineering facilities.

Exclusive Industry Tours – Get an inside look at leading aerospace and defence companies.

For more information visit - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9j4BModyi0

To apply for the program, make a two-minute video explaining why you’d love to attend. Students can upload their video to YouTube or Vimeo as an UNLISTED video and simply send the link to wackettSTEMprogram@rmit.edu.au. Applications close on 25 February 2025, so start brainstorming your pitch now!